The Massachusetts Library System is pleased to announce that we have contracted with ALA to provide our members with access to their live webinars.  These webinars are free to MLS members who register through our calendar.  Please do not register directly with ALA. Members who register directly with ALA are responsible for paying their registration fee. 

Please help us keep MLS sponsored training free for all members. If you are unable to attend the live webinar, please cancel your registration. A cancellation link can be found in your confirmation email, or you may contact Sarah Donnelly at sdonnelly@masslibsystem.org to cancel. 

Please note: This is a TWO-PART webinar series taking place Monday, October 7 and Tuesday, October 8, 2024 from 2:30-4:00 PM. Please only register if you can attend both parts. By registering here, you are registering for both dates. 

Description

Library services are for everyone, and that includes the deaf community. In this workshop, Kathy MacMillan, librarian and certified American Sign Language interpreter, guides you in making your library a more welcoming place for patrons who are deaf or hard of hearing. You will gain an understanding of Deaf culture, learn library-related signs, and become prepared to confidently work with interpreters for your programs.

Learning Outcomes

After participating in this workshop, you will have:

• An understanding of how to meet your library’s legal obligation to serve deaf and hard of hearing patrons
• Strategies for communicating with a deaf or hard of hearing person in the library
• Video demonstrations and handouts for library-related signs, accessible for practice after the workshop
• Tips for finding, hiring, and working with sign language interpreters
• Knowledge of varieties of communication among deaf and hard of hearing people

Presenter

Kathy MacMillan (she/her) is a writer, nationally certified American Sign Language interpreter, librarian, and signing storyteller. She has worked in school and public libraries for over 25 years. She writes fiction and nonfiction for children, teens, and adults, including the Little Hands Signing series from Familius Press and the Storytime Magic series from ALA Editions. She lives in Baltimore, MD. Find her online at KathyMacMillan.com or on Twitter and Instagram at @kathys_quill.

Accessibility Information

If you have questions or requests regarding accessibility, contact ce@ala.org or at 312-280-5100.